Los Angeles Kings Top 20 prospects delivering in statement seasons

[HF Article]

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The fall Top 20 list for the Los Angeles Kings saw the rise of some question marks about players like Jordan Weal, Nikolai Prokhorkin, and Jonny Brodzinski. Could they excel in new surroundings? Could they follow up strong years with better ones? How will they progress from the previous season?



As several leagues around the world finish up their seasons and head for the playoffs, the AHL and NHL are starting down the stretch. Many questions at this point have been asked and answered, and the LA Kings prospects have definitely come to play in 2013-14. Several new faces have vaulted into place on the list with outstanding seasons, while others have been bumped out completely.… read more



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[Raccoon Jesus]

You guys weren't kidding, this came right out

Will read over now, thanks!

 

[PJ Kings Hockey]

I like it. There are a lot of 4th and 5th rounders on that list that have done quite well so far. I wonder about Derek Forbort being ranked so high at 9th, though. Is it because of his potential and status as a 1st rounder? I am guessing it is because of a higher projected ceiling because of his score (7.0D). When I read Monarch game reports I don't usually read mentions of key plays Derek made. Bodnarchuk LoVerde, and Schultz yes, but not Forbort.

 

[Jason Lewis]

I like it. There are a lot of 4th and 5th rounders on that list that have done quite well so far. I wonder about Derek Forbort being ranked so high at 9th, though. Is it because of his potential and status as a 1st rounder? I am guessing it is because of a higher projected ceiling because of his score (7.0D). When I read Monarch game reports I don't usually read mentions of key plays Derek made. Bodnarchuk LoVerde, and Schultz yes, but not Forbort.

We actually decided it was best to lower his potential from a C rating to a D for now. Seems more likely to drop a little in his original top-pairing defenseman potential. When first rounders come in you usually have a high ceiling for them obviously. He has hit a bit of a wall this year which might deter his long term outlook just a little.

 

[Whiskeypete]

We actually decided it was best to lower his potential from a C rating to a D for now. Seems more likely to drop a little in his original top-pairing defenseman potential. When first rounders come in you usually have a high ceiling for them obviously. He has hit a bit of a wall this year which might deter his long term outlook just a little.

he did the same thing at UND. he seems to take longer to get comfortable and progress with each level advancement. personally i think his first two years at UND he looked inconsistent and shaky at times. it wasn't until his Jr season that i saw consistency and more importantly confidence in his game. i'm hoping his development begins to come faster for him now.

 

[Jason Lewis]

he did the same thing at UND. he seems to take longer to get comfortable and progress with each level advancement. personally i think his first two years at UND he looked inconsistent and shaky at times. it wasn't until his Jr season that i saw consistency and more importantly confidence in his game. i'm hoping his development begins to come faster for him now.

I think the Forbort vs. Gravel debate was the biggest one in my head writing the list. That and where to slot Prokhorkin.

 

[King'sPawn]

Nicely done, Jason!

I definitely like the inclusion of Zac Leslie. He definitely knows how to get in the right place at the right time. Very smart offensive defenseman with a bit of a mean streak.

 

[Jason Lewis]

i've received a few questions on the inclusion of LaDue over the likes of Ebert.

LaDue has been challenged nearly all season to keep his spot on the UND blueline. He was one of I believe four freshman vying for two spots, and he has been an everyday starter AND is second amongst defenseman in scoring. 14 points in 29 games is decent for a Freshman but what has impressed me is how he has done it with hungry players wanting icetime breathing down his neck almost all season. Coaching staff has been impressed as well.

Can't say Ebert is under the same type of pressure.

 

[Fat Elvis]

Nicely done, Jason!

I definitely like the inclusion of Zac Leslie. He definitely knows how to get in the right place at the right time. Very smart offensive defenseman with a bit of a mean streak.

Leslie looks to be a gem of a 6th round pick. Kid is going to be a player once he gains some needed weight and muscle. Really excited about this kid. I'm curious to see if he can step up next season and battle for a spot in Manchester.